Bank of Canada Interest Rate Announcement

(December 05, 2014)

The Bank of Canada announced on December 3 that it is holding its target overnight rate at one per cent. This marks the longest period without a change in the Bank’s policy rate since the 1950s. In the statement accompanying its decision, the Bank noted that inflation has been stronger than expected in the past year, though mainly due to temporary factors. The Bank also stated that slack in the Canadian economy appears to be lower than projected in October due to upward revisions to growth as well as a broadening Canadian economic recovery. The Bank cited falling oil prices and household financial imbalances as key risks to its outlook.

Perhaps the most pressing development for the Canadian economy, and therefore monetary policy, is the recent downturn in oil prices. Untangling the macroeconomic consequences of declining oil prices can be complex for an oil-producing country like Canada. However, the recent decline in oil prices will likely be felt strongest on growth through decreased output in the oil and gas industry and on inflation through lower prices for energy products, particularly gasoline. This suggests a delay in inflation returning to the Bank's 2 per cent target.

What does this mean for interest rates and the housing sector? Experts expect the Bank will begin slowly raising its overnight rate, starting late next year with perhaps a 25 basis point increase. That should translate to modestly higher mortgage rates in 2015.

This representation is based in whole or in part on data generated by the Chilliwack & District Real Estate Board, Fraser Valley Real Estate Board or Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy - Listing data updated on December 13, 2017

*E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal. Sotheby's International Realty Canada is Independently Owned And Operated.